Overview

The Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations programme at Harvard University provides an expansive academic framework for studying the diverse peoples, languages, and cultures of the Near and Middle East. This curriculum spans from antiquity to the modern era, integrating the study of literature, arts, and politics. Students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that examines the complex social fabrics of these influential regions.

Participants can specialise in distinct fields such as Ancient Near Eastern studies, Armenian and East Christian studies, Jewish History and Culture, or the Histories and Cultures of Muslim Societies. The programme is designed to foster deep analytical skills and linguistic proficiency, preparing scholars for advanced research or professional engagement with the region's heritage.

Why Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations at Harvard University?

Students have access to unparalleled resources, including the extensive Harvard library system and specialised museums. The faculty consists of world-renowned experts who provide mentorship across various niche disciplines. This academic environment is enriched by the university's dedicated centres of learning and research excellence.

The programme also offers significant opportunities for international engagement through study abroad initiatives. Previous cohorts have participated in field trips to locations such as Morocco, Turkey, Israel, and Italy. These experiences allow students to connect their theoretical classroom learning with the physical and cultural landscapes of the Near East.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 57328 per year
National fee: USD 57328 per year
Local fee: USD 57328 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on intensive linguistic training and thematic historical analysis. Modules may include:

Akkadian
Arabic
Aramaic
Armenian
Hebrew
Persian
Sumerian
Turkish
Yiddish

Careers with Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations

Graduates from this programme have successfully secured prestigious academic roles at institutions such as Stanford and Georgetown University. The versatile skill set developed during the course also supports transitions into diverse professional sectors outside of academia.

Alumni have pursued impactful careers in public service and the private sector. Notable roles include serving as state representatives, fiscal policy analysts for government bodies, and editorial positions within major publishing groups. The programme's emphasis on critical analysis and cultural expertise makes graduates highly valuable in international relations and policy-making.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Ancient Near Eastern Studies

Histories and Cultures of Muslim Societies

Jewish History and Culture

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies History Modern History View 531 other Masters in History in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

GRE General: Required

Writing Sample: Required

Letters of Recommendation

Transcipts

English Proficiency

Standardized Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

57328 USD / year

≈ 57328 USD / year
Out-of-State

57328 USD / year

≈ 57328 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

57328 USD / year

≈ 57328 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Cambridge

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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